From the Farmer
As winter considers settling on the farm, the rhythm of farm work settles too. In some ways, December can feel like one of the most productive times of year because new tasks are seldom added to the 'to do' list, but lots are checked off. At this time of year, we are packing up, cleaning up, and tending to things that have been pushed aside in favor of more pressing work all season long.
The animals are settling as well. Chickens are cozied up in their winter quarters near to home where electricity helps to keep their water from freezing and we're able to provide some snow-free ranging areas for them. The horses help to haul stuff around the farm as needed, but most field work is done for the season, except for some occasional compost or manure spreading and pasture harrowing. Fred, the pig, is catching up on any napping he didn't have time for during the warmer months, back when he was too busy, well, napping, I guess. It truly is his first order of business.
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This quiet time of year is about to get quieter still as Maggie, Mo, and Will, the core of the 2021 farm crew, will all be moving off the farm this coming weekend and on to their next endeavors. They will be greatly missed and remembered fondly for all of their bright and fun company and joyful, tireless, and careful contributions to making this a bountiful and beautiful growing season.
Maggie will be heading to Ithaca, N.Y. to start a vegetable growing venture of her own, complete with a pair of draft horses! And Will and Mo will return to Haley House, a Catholic Worker-inspired soup kitchen in Boston, where they will continue their work of service to people in need. Thank you Maggie, Mo, and Will for all of your contributions to the farm and to the world!
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A Solstice Prayer
As these longest nights of the year envelope us, may we find presence in the darkness. Even in solitude, we are not alone.
While the plant world is dormant and animals are asleep, our inner growth is deep and rich.
In the depths of the darkest soul night, may each find their unique and essential light.
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Local Products
In At The Farm Store
Eggnog
Milk, Cream, 1/2 & 1/2
Coffee & Tea
Fresh Cranberries
Crackers
Cheeses
Salami's
Honey
Maple Syrup
Specialty Syrups and Honeys
Chocolates
Frozen Holiday Hams from Sage Farm in Bernardston
Frozen Whole Chickens from Underline Farm in Ashfield
Frozen Steaks from Foxbard Farm in Shelburne
Large Size Vanilla Ice Cream (And Seasonal Peppermint Stick!)
from Barts/Snows in Greenfield
Cookies (Chippers, Ginger Hermits, and PBs!)
from Linden Ave Tasty Treats
We also have greeting cards, books, beeswax candles, bees wrap food storage in various sizes, herbal tinctures, soap and 100% shetland wool yarn - All great gift ideas and all made locally!
On Sale:
Jams, Mustards, Salad Dressings, Mother's Pickled Products, Vinegar, Butternut Seed Oil, Massachusetts Small Batch Sea Salt
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This Year, Give the Gift of Local Food
Gift Ideas for your Loved Ones:
- Create a gift basket of locally made items
- Buy a Natural Roots gift card! (Email us for details - we can load cards in any denomination, can take payments over phone or email, and can mail them out for you if needed.)
- Main Season CSA Shares for 2022 are still available too - Give the gift of our farm's bounty! Sign up for yourself or others here.
Christmas Trees and Wreath's from Pieropan's Tree Farm
Last minute decorating? We still have some pre-cut trees ($45) and large wreaths ($34) available too. Self serve, anytime!
Our Own Organic Carrots and Kale
We have a crop of delightfully dainty carrots that are available for bulk purchase. These are perfect for slicing length-wise and roasting! These have been hit by frost so they are extra sweet. Price is $2 per pound, or $1.60 per pound for 25 pounds ($40 for each $25 lb bag)
We also have loose/topped frost-sweetened kale - $2 per pound for orders of 5 pounds or more. These should be processed for winter quickly!
Please email us with your order and we will arrange a pick-up time. Cash or check only for bulk orders please.
Happiest of Holidays and Happy New Year!
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Britt's Honey Roasted Carrots. Yum!
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